This Lemon Garlic Shrimp dish is a quick and tasty treat! Juicy shrimp are cooked in a zesty garlic-lemon sauce that makes your taste buds dance with joy.
Honestly, it’s so easy to whip up that you might want to make it every week. Serve it over pasta or with some crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this dish as they cook quickly and absorb the flavors well. If shrimp aren’t available, you can use scallops or even chicken pieces, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Butter: Butter adds richness, but you can substitute with olive oil for a lighter option. Coconut oil works too, giving it a unique flavor. My personal choice is a mix of both for a great taste.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is best for flavor. If you’re out, garlic powder can be a good alternative, though use less (about 1/4 teaspoon). I always go for more garlic, as I love its bold flavor!
Lemon: Fresh lemon juice is key. If you can’t find it, use bottled lemon juice but remember it’s less fresh tasting. Lime juice also works nicely if you’re looking for a twist.
Parsley: Fresh parsley brightens the dish, but you can use basil or cilantro for different flavor notes. I enjoy mixing parsley with a bit of basil for added depth.
How Do You Cook Shrimp Perfectly Every Time?
Cooking shrimp can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll get it just right! The key is not to overcook them, as they can turn tough and rubbery.
- Start with a hot skillet to sear the shrimp quickly. This helps develop a nice layer of flavor.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook in batches if necessary, giving each shrimp space to cook evenly.
- Look for color changes: shrimp will turn pink and become opaque when cooked. Remove from heat as soon as this happens.
- Adding lemon juice at the right time is vital. It not only enhances flavor but also stops the cooking process and prevents overcooking.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Shrimp
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juiced and sliced
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lemon wedges for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish will take about 10 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s super quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Melting the Butter:
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt completely. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn. The hot butter will give your shrimp a rich flavor!
2. Sautéing the Garlic:
Once the butter is melted, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant but be careful—don’t let it get too brown! This will add a lovely aroma to your dish.
3. Cooking the Shrimp:
Next, add the shrimp to the skillet in a single layer. Season them with a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you like a little spice. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on one side without stirring, then flip them over. This helps them cook evenly and get that nice, golden color!
4. Adding Lemon and Finishing Up:
After flipping the shrimp, pour in the lemon juice and toss in the lemon slices. Allow everything to cook for another 2-3 minutes until the shrimp are pink and look opaque. You can check to make sure they’re done—when they curl up and turn a bright pink, they’re ready!
5. Garnishing and Serving:
Take the skillet off the heat and stir in the chopped parsley for a fresh touch. Serve the shrimp hot, garnished with extra parsley and some lemon wedges on the side for squeezing. Enjoy your zesty and flavorful Lemon Garlic Shrimp!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to completely thaw the shrimp before cooking. You can thaw shrimp overnight in the fridge, or for a quick method, place them in a sealed plastic bag and submerge in cold water for about 30 minutes. Pat them dry before adding to the skillet to prevent excess moisture.
What If I Don’t Have Butter, Can I Use Olive Oil?
Yes, olive oil is a great substitute for butter in this recipe. It will slightly change the flavor, but it will still be delicious! Use the same amount of olive oil (4 tablespoons) in place of the butter.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you want to amp up the heat, you can add more red pepper flakes or incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. Adjust according to your spice preference at each stage of the cooking process for the best flavor balance!
Can I Prepare This Dish in Advance?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the garlic and lemon mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a day. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat in the skillet and add the shrimp, following the cooking instructions. It’s best to cook the shrimp just before serving for the best texture.
